A Russian war enemy will be put on trial with tape played
There are still war opponents in Russia. However, they are not well-liked in the Kremlin - and their words appear to be feared. When the imprisoned Memorial chairman Oleg Orlov shows defiance during a hearing, he is silenced by being made mute.
In Russia, the imprisoned human rights defender Oleg Orlov confirmed his charge of "mass suppression" during a hearing in court. The 71-year-old co-chairman of the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights organization Memorial spoke during a hearing in a packed courtroom in Moscow, participating via video link from a prison about 750 kilometers away.
"If there is mass suppression in the country, I am on the side of the persecuted, and in this way I help," Orlow continued. Then the tone of his video link was cut off.
Orlow was sentenced to two and a half years in prison in February for speaking out against the war in Ukraine. He was found guilty of discrediting the Russian army, after participating in demonstrations against the war and writing an article accusing President Vladimir Putin of leading the country into fascism.
Orlow's supporters have recently expressed concern for his health condition. His legal team spoke of inhumane and degrading prison conditions.
Prominent war opponent Vladimir Kara-Mursa is also being held in Russia. Recently, he was transferred to a labor camp hospital. He was close to long-term Putin critic Alexei Navalny, who died in custody in February. His entourage, as well as Western politicians, have held Putin responsible for this.
- Despite being a war opponent, Vladimir Kara-Mursa, similar to Oleg Orlov, faces criticism and intimidation within Russia's political circle.
- The international community has been critical of Russia's treatment of human rights defenders and war critics, with Oleg Orlov's silencing during a court hearing being a notable example.
- The attack on Ukraine has been a contentious issue, leading to condemnation of President Vladimir Putin for his role in perceived war crimes and allegations of leading Russia into fascism.
- The Nobel Peace Prize, symbolizing global recognition of efforts towards peace, has been awarded to organizations like Memorial, highlighting the importance of addressing human rights issues in the context of ongoing conflicts and wars.
